Ep. 15: Giving Our Kids Appropriate Responsibilities (It Will Help Us and Them!)

Ever wondered what chores (if any) are appropriate for a five-year-old? What about a fifteen-year-old? IS there a biblical precedent for giving our children responsibilities in our home, and what does that look like practically day to day?
We'll answer all these questions and more in today's episode about kids' chores, responsibilities, allowances, and privileges in the home. I'll also share our family motto that has helped to keep our eye on what our attitude should be toward others as we do our work "as unto the Lord."
In a world that often screams confusing phrases like, "Your child didn't ask to be brought into the world, so he/she shouldn't have to contribute to your home," (huh??), I want to encourage you that giving kids responsibilities, routines, and life skills is one of the kindest and best parenting moves we can make. Not only that, but fostering an others-minded way of thinking leads to kids who are less likely to be lazy and self-obsessed--two things about which the Bible has a lot to say!
Bible references:
Proverbs 18:24
John 15:13
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[@kdwerner]

Your podcast has been such an encouragement to me, Abbie! I’ve gained so much perspective and practical wisdom for areas of parents we’ve been struggling with. Thank you❤

[@auroraolson9497]

Such an encouraging post! My two toddlers love having little jobs and I know it makes them feel like an important part of the family. Anyone who thinks kids shouldn't do chores has never witnessed their older brother go off to college and be at odds with roommates because he was used to mom cleaning up after him or become depressed living on his own because he suddenly lives in squalor and cannot do simple things like wash dishes and clean up. I refuse to let that be my children's future.

[@bryersheridan815]

I have twins I get it !! I can be homeschooling their big brother and then find a room or every room just trashed dispite how much I try to keep them busy or contained or whatever else lol they have a tendency to find away haha twins can be so much more mischievous than I have ever thought 😂❤

[@Gina_Michel]

Soooo good, Abbie! 🙏

[@sarahmacsweemey]

Thank you Abbie for your content. Another great episode.

[@lisayun8995]

Great episode and I love your earrings! God bless you!

[@abigaelmacritchie1365]

I often think how alike Maria Montessori's your philosophy is. She described the 4 plane of development in children much like what you have noticed yourself. The first (0 to 6yo) is a period when children have a natural sense of order and want to do tasks as they subconsciously know they need to do that work to learn all the skills they will need later in life. 6 to 12yos are naturally more easy going and will usually be fairly reliable for tasks. 12 to 18yos can be harder to deal with, but they enjoy greater responsibilities and meaningful tasks (for example babysitting, which is also great training for becoming parents). Finally, 18 to 24yos understand the spiritual meaning of their work and will find a sense of profound purpose in contributing to the family's work.

[@eskcj2012]

Have you ever dealt with your children telling you…”you have too many kids. Why did you have so many kids just to clean your house?” I’ve gotten that from my children and it feels so defeating and leaves me baffled. Just wondering if you’ve experienced this.

[@ktrayan1]

Lol “Twinado”